The idea of application centric networking is getting more attention nowadays. This has been Cisco's response to the SDN world through its Insieme Networks spin out and spin-in. There are some merits to the concept of declarative network management which was started by the likes of Puppet and Chef to declare policies which are enforced by the end points.Cisco is also trying to push their ACI based technology as open by submitting a draft standard to the IETF for OPFLEX along with other companies. This is also going to be part of the Open Day Light project as well.You can read more about Cisco's ACI Here..